EHRC launches disability-harassment inquiry, warns public sector of enforcement action
Local authorities and other public sector bodies are to be the subject of an Equalities and Human Rights Commission inquiry into whether they are fulfilling their legal obligations to prevent disabled people from being harassed.
The inquiry, which has the “full support” of the Minister for the Disabled Maria Miller, will scrutinise the efforts of a range of public bodies, including:
- Councils, including social services
- Social housing providers, including Arm’s Length Management Organisations
- Police forces
- Schools
- Bus companies
- Train companies
- Other public transport providers.
The organisations will be asked to disclose what steps they are taking to meet their legal duties.
The ECHR warned that those found to be failing in their duties could face enforcement action. The Commission previously wrote to Hinckley and Bosworth Council, demanding evidence that it is compliant with its legal duties following the Coroner’s inquest into the deaths of Fiona Pilkington and her daughter Francecca.
The inquiry will examine the support that victims of disability-related harassment are given as well as the preventative measures put in place by organisations in England, Wales and Scotland.
The rights watchdog is calling for evidence from members of the public. It will also be working closely with organisations of and for disabled people.
Mike Smith, lead commissioner for the inquiry, said: “By highlighting the failures as well as learning from examples of good practice, the Commission’s inquiry will help public bodies try to ensure that future tragedies are prevented and transform the way that the people of Britain value and respect disabled people.”
The Commission has said it will consider using its legal powers to call public bodies to account, either by compelling to give them evidence or by summoning witnesses. It plans to hold hearings in September 2010.
